A UK firm that uses internet protocol (IP) signalling over broadband to eliminate the "weak link" of telephone lines has been given £500,000 to support its global expansion.

The Emizon Group, which is based in Sheffield, was awarded the money by the South Yorkshire Investment Fund.

It will help the company explore new markets for its system, which it says is the first secured messaging service designed specifically for IP networks.

By using broadband instead of a telephone line, which offers a single line of contact, the system has multiple communication links between the monitoring centre and the protected building.

This means businesses are safeguarded against attacks on their alarm systems via its telephone line.

Emizon Group's co-founder and chief executive Geoff Girdler said: "Communication wires are often in a vulnerable position outside of the property and therefore likely to become a target for professional criminal groups."

He added that broadband system was therefore ideal for protecting banks, building societies and jewellers.

The South Yorkshire Investment Fund provides loans and equity ranging from £15,000 to £2.5 million to aid the development of small and medium businesses in the region.